Caltrain starts prep work on electrification project

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SAN FRANCISCO — From now until the end of February, Caltrain will be performing pre-construction work within the right-of-way as part of the Peninsula Corridor Electrification Project.

During this time, Caltrain will be working on pre-construction activities in the field that include locating utilities, confirming soil conditions and testing cables. The work will primarily take place during the day, but there will be some night activities between 8 p.m. and 6 a.m. Residents living near the area of the pre-construction activities are being notified of the work by mail.

To accommodate the work, there may be some single-tracking during non-peak hours and Caltrain passengers should be aware of signs at the stations that let them know to board on a different platform.

Once pre-construction is complete, the project team will start construction-related activities in spring or summer 2017. The planned work including pre-construction and full construction is updated weekly on Caltrain's website.

The primary purpose of the electrification project is to improve Caltrain system performance and reduce long-term environmental affects by reducing noise, improving regional air quality, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. A modernized Caltrain system will better address Peninsula commuters’ vision of increased service and improved travel times in an environmentally friendly and reliable way. When complete, Caltrain will be cleaner, quieter, and serve more riders. The electrification project is scheduled to be operational by early 2021.